Several Gambian importers have raised concerns, alleging that the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) grants Jah Oil preferential treatment, particularly at the busy ports.
They claim that, despite heavy traffic, Jah Oil consistently secures one of the three available jetties to offload its cement cargo, leaving only two for other importers. Some importers report that their shipments are left at sea for extended periods, sometimes weeks, before being able to dock, while Jah Oil enjoys constant access to its designated jetty. “This is unfair and unreasonable,” one importer remarked, urging the government to investigate and ensure fair access to the jetties for all businesses. They further blame the rising costs of freight and demurrage fees on these delays.
The GPA has been contacted for comments on these allegations, but no formal response has been given.In contrast, Momodou Hydara, General Manager of Jah Oil, dismissed the accusations. He clarified that GPA operates on a first-come, first-serve basis unless there is a critical shortage of goods like rice, sugar, or cement.
Hydara emphasized that Jah Oil only receives priority during these rare shortages, which currently do not exist. He further explained that Jah Oil is restricted to using the coal cargo jetty, designated specifically for cement, while the other two jetties handle various cargo types, including rice and sugar. “Cement cannot be moved to other jetties due to its hazardous nature,” Hydara said, accusing importers of trying to avoid demurrage charges by blaming Jah Oil and GPA.
